Ajmer Dargah Chief Backs Waqf Bill, Calls it ‘Crucial Reform’
The Waqf Amendment Bill, aimed at revamping the management of Waqf properties, has received a significant boost with the backing of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah Gaddi Nashin and Chishty Foundation Chairman, Haji Syed Salman Chishty. In an interview, Chishty praised the bill, terming it a “crucial reform” that addresses some of the “long-standing issues that are plaguing the Waqf”.
The Waqf Amendment Bill seeks to address the inefficiencies and misuse of Waqf properties, which have been a matter of concern for the Muslim community for a long time. According to Chishty, the bill acknowledges the widespread consensus within the Muslim community regarding the misuse of Waqf properties, which has resulted in their poor management and underutilization.
Waqf properties, which are considered sacred by the Muslim community, are typically managed by trusts or committees that oversee their upkeep and maintenance. However, over the years, these properties have been mismanaged, leading to a decline in their value and neglect. The Waqf Amendment Bill aims to bring about much-needed reforms to the management of these properties, ensuring that they are utilized for the benefit of the Muslim community.
Chishty’s support for the bill is significant, given his position as the head of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, one of the most sacred shrines in India. The dargah, which attracts millions of devotees every year, is managed by the Chishty Foundation, which is responsible for its upkeep and maintenance. Chishty’s endorsement of the bill is a testament to his commitment to the welfare of the Muslim community and his recognition of the need for reforms in the management of Waqf properties.
The Waqf Amendment Bill aims to address several issues that have plagued the Waqf sector for years. One of the key concerns is the lack of transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf properties. The bill proposes to establish a robust monitoring mechanism to ensure that Waqf properties are managed efficiently and that funds are utilized properly.
Another significant aspect of the bill is its emphasis on empowering women and youth in the management of Waqf properties. The bill proposes to increase the representation of women and youth on Waqf committees, ensuring that their voices are heard and their perspectives are taken into account.
Moreover, the bill aims to promote the development of Waqf properties, encouraging their utilization for social and economic purposes. This includes promoting education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship initiatives, which can benefit the Muslim community as a whole.
Chishty’s support for the bill is not limited to its provisions alone. He has also emphasized the need for a cultural shift within the Waqf community, urging Waqf administrators to adopt a more modern and inclusive approach to managing Waqf properties.
“We need to move away from the traditional way of doing things and adopt a more modern and inclusive approach,” Chishty said. “We need to empower women and youth, and promote transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf properties.”
The Waqf Amendment Bill is a crucial step towards reforming the Waqf sector, and Chishty’s support is a significant boost to its prospects. With its emphasis on transparency, accountability, and empowerment, the bill has the potential to bring about a positive change in the management of Waqf properties, ensuring that they are utilized for the benefit of the Muslim community.
In conclusion, Chishty’s endorsement of the Waqf Amendment Bill is a significant development in the ongoing efforts to reform the Waqf sector. His recognition of the need for reforms and his commitment to the welfare of the Muslim community are a testament to his leadership and vision. As the Waqf Amendment Bill makes its way through Parliament, it is essential that all stakeholders come together to support its passage and implementation, ensuring that Waqf properties are utilized for the benefit of the Muslim community.
